(2011, 97 min)
Country: United Kingdom
Director: Andrew Haigh
Studio: IFC Films, Criterion
SYNOPSIS: This sensual, remarkably observed, beautifully acted wonder is the breakout feature from British writer/director/editor Andrew Haigh (who made his debut with Greek Pete). Rarely has a film been as honest about sexuality - in both depiction and discussion - as this tale of a one-night-stand that develops into a weekend-long idyll for two very different young men (exciting newcomers Tom Cullen and Chris New) in Midlands England. It’s an emotionally naked film that’s both an invaluable snapshot of the complexities of contemporary gay living and a universally identifiable portrait of a love affair.
REVIEW:
I am such a fan of Weekend that I find it difficult to write about. There is a part of me that feels as though dissecting the film will take away from its magic and power. The first time I saw it, I was by myself and had little-to-no expectations. I was so emotionally awestruck and uplifted that I immediately wanted to watch it again and share the experience with another person. Honestly, I think I have seen it about 12 times by now (with different friends) and I can say confidently that, with the exception of a poorly-written song that plays during the closing credits, Weekend is a PERFECT romance - especially for those of us who remain skeptical of love stories.
Two cute, gay, British hipster boys meet, share a one-night-stand and then start connecting on a deeper level the next morning. One of them, though, is leaving for school in Portland, Oregon at the end of the weekend. They only have that short period of time to spend together. The premise seems simple, but the emotions are complicated. The fact that these two guys, opposites at times, are so drawn to each other starts to make them question all other aspects of their lives and plans for the future. They quickly learn how to push each other's buttons, but come away stimulated by their interactions. These two clearly have a lot to learn from one another. On top of that, the sex (depicted graphically, but with great sensitivity and beauty) is pretty amazing too. With the time constraint looming over their early-stage romance, the pressure is on. Will these two throw caution to the wind and start planning a life together or are they destined to part ways with only a sweet, melancholy memory to show for their relationship? You’ll have to watch to find out!
Newcomers Tom Cullen and Chris New are so comfortable in the lead roles, delivering such wonderfully memorable, naturalistic performances that it’s easy to forget they are acting. Andrew Haigh, a director-to-watch if I ever saw one, manages to keep raising the emotional stakes while never betraying the realistic atmosphere that he creates. What begins as a dialog-driven character study, ends as an almost edge-of-your-seat experience that still values honesty, and the simple examination of finding love when you least expect it. Weekend is easily one of the most excitingly romantic movies I’ve seen in a long, long time. It totally blew me away and I hope it does the same for you.
-- Robert O'Neill, TLA Video (http://www.tlavideo.com)
